Esperance coach Patrice Beaumelle was disappointed with the manner of his side’s CAF Champions League exit to Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday.
The Brazilians recorded a 1-0 semi-final first leg encounter with Brayan Leon on target with a powerful second-half header.
Leon then sealed his side’s progression to the final with RS Berkane with a goal in the second leg as he followed up his missed spot-kick.
Beaumelle has since bemoaned the penalty call, saying in the Citizen: “For me, it was a disaster of a decision for football and it killed the game, but we did well and continued playing.
“We pushed and made a good effort, and at 0-0, we were still in the game. One goal could have taken us to penalties because you never know in football, but unfortunately, we didn’t score today.”
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Reflecting on the tie as a whole, the Esperance boss added, “I’m sad, when you go to the change room, and everybody is down and disappointed despite the game we played. I want to congratulate my boys for their efforts because they respected the plan,” he concluded.
“We controlled the game here at Sundowns, which is never easy. They did exactly what we asked them. One stupid decision changed the game and when you chase the game, it becomes very difficult.
“You have to adapt and change your mindset and make substitutions to score as quickly as possible. It was a tough game, and I want to congratulate everyone because it was a real Champions League game.
“Unfortunately, some people killed the game, but otherwise, it’s in the name of football. We have to accept it, and we’ll come back stronger next season.”